Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Positioning:
Positioned as a more refined and comfortable alternative to mainstream SUVs, offering V8 power and a premium experience within the GM lineup.
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Lincoln Aviator
Engine Options:
Available with GM's robust Vortec inline-six and V8 engines, known for their power and durability.
Ride Quality:
Emphasis on a comfortable and quiet ride, distinguishing it from more truck-like SUVs.
Luxury Appointments:
Available premium features such as leather upholstery, heated seats, enhanced sound systems, and wood trim.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission operation (4-speed automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (independent front, solid rear axle), steering, brakes (ABS, traction control), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Lighting systems, power outlets, accessory operation, instrument cluster, warning indicators, fuses and relays
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate control (manual and automatic), audio system, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), seating adjustments, interior lighting
Safety And Security:
Airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems (LATCH), door locks, anti-theft system, tire pressure monitoring system (if equipped)
Driver Information:
Instrument cluster displays, trip computer functions, warning messages and indicators
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire inflation checks, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement
Do It Yourself:
Information on basic maintenance tasks, owner checks
Towing:
Towing capacity, trailer wiring information, trailer brake controller considerations (if applicable), towing safety practices
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting, tire changes, dealing with overheating, brake failure
Troubleshooting:
Explanation of warning lights and indicators, basic diagnostic information
Depth:
Comprehensive owner-level information, focusing on operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not cover in-depth repair procedures or diagnostic codes.
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic overdrive
Transmission Controller:
Electronic
Optional Transmission:
N/A (All Rainier models used the 4L60-E or variant)
Transmission Features:
Tow/Haul mode, driver-selectable gear ranges (where applicable)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Wheelbase:
113.9 inches (2893 mm)
Length:
193.4 inches (4912 mm)
Width:
74.7 inches (1897 mm)
Height:
70.0 inches (1778 mm) (approx.)
Seating Capacity:
5 or 7 passengers (optional third row)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 41.8 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 16.9 cubic feet (with 7-passenger configuration)
Curb Weight Est Min:
4,600 lbs (approx. for 4.2L RWD)
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to 6,500 lbs (with 5.3L V8 and proper trailering package)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (2007 model year, as per available data for similar GM SUVs on this platform)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (2007 model year, as per available data for similar GM SUVs on this platform)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars (2007 model year, as per available data for similar GM SUVs on this platform)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4 Stars (2007 model year, as per available data for similar GM SUVs on this platform)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Optional StabiliTrak Stability Control System
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side-impact airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts in all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats
Child Restraints:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Optional Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Audio System Options:
Available with AM/FM stereo, CD player, cassette player (early models), and premium Bose® audio system options.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system.
Rear Parking Assist:
Optional Rear Parking Assist system.
Onstar:
Available OnStar® in-vehicle safety and communication system integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Consult manual for severe conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 5 years or 150,000 miles, then every 2 years or 60,000 miles thereafter (for Dex-Cool coolant).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Check at every oil change. Replacement interval typically around 100,000 miles, but can vary based on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific guidance.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 L) for 4.2L I6, 5.5 quarts (5.2 L) for 5.3L V8 (with filter)
Coolant Type:
GM Recommended DEX-COOL® (Orange coolant)
Common Concern 1:
Rear main seal leaks (common on GM inline-six and V8 engines of this era).
Common Concern 2:
Cooling system issues, including radiator leaks and water pump failures.
Common Concern 3:
Potential for fuel pump issues over time.
Common Concern 4:
Minor electrical glitches or sensor issues are not uncommon in vehicles of this age.
Brand Context:
Buick, established in 1899, is one of America's oldest automotive brands, historically known for its comfortable, stylish, and quiet vehicles.
Platform Sharing:
The Rainier is based on GM's GMT360 platform, shared with the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy, Oldsmobile Bravada, Saab 9-7X, and Isuzu Ascender.
Production Period:
The Buick Rainier was produced for a relatively short period, from the 2004 to 2007 model years, serving as Buick's entry into the mid-size SUV market during that era.
Manufacturing Location:
GM's Moraine, Ohio, and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, assembly plants (alongside its platform siblings).
